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I have a toyota corolla hatchback 1998, it has what appears to be surface rust near the hinges of the hatch. i have been told that i need to get this sort before the next WOF otherwise it will fail. there is no movement or softness when pressing on the area so is the right.

This may be the case if there is evidence of corrosion close to hinges or any part of the structure. Essentially, where paint has worn through, causing the surface corrosion, there is a danger of this eventually corroding through (rust never sleeps!). However, from your description, it sounds as if it is only in the very early stages, so you may be able to lightly sand back the surface corrosion and protect the surface by applying rust inhibitor and a coat of paint. Really, all they are asking is for you to prevent the surface corrosion from becoming structural.